Article
Proposed Changes to Shotgun Licensing
CPSA Statement on Home Office Proposals for the Convergence of Sections 1 & 2 Licensing
The CPSA is aware of proposals and planned public consultation for changes to shotgun licensing by the Home Office. We are engaged with both the government and working with our fellow shooting associations, the gun trade, and the BSSC to oppose proposals to merge Section 1 (firearm) and Section 2 (shotgun) licensing.
A merger of the two systems is unnecessary, disproportionate, and would place significant strain on an already overstretched licensing infrastructure. While the CPSA supports proportionate regulation, we believe such a change would damage the sport of clay shooting without delivering any meaningful public safety benefit. Current evidence does not support a combined licensing regime in terms of risk, data, or operational feasibility.
We will continue to urge the government to retain the separate licensing structures, and instead focus on improvements that genuinely enhance public safety, such as better resourcing of licensing teams and consistent application of guidance across all police forces.
The CPSA will keep members updated as more information becomes available and as the consultation process progresses.
Please contact CPSA HQ at info@cpsa.co.uk with any questions.